An ethanol/sodium citrate locking solution compared to heparin to prevent hemodialysis catheter-related infections: a randomized pilot study.

Purpose: The objective of this study was to compare the initial safety and efficacy of a novel 30% ethanol/4% sodium citrate catheter-locking solution to heparin in a hemodialysis population.

Methods: This was a prospective, randomized, pilot study of 40 hemodialysis patients randomized to a 30% ethanol/4% sodium citrate or heparin 1000 units/mL locking solution. The primary outcome was identification of any serious adverse events over the study duration.

Getting the most out of your practice--the Practice Health Atlas and business modelling opportunities.

Background: The Practice Health Atlas (PHA) is a decision support tool for general practice, designed by the Adelaide Western Division of General Practice (AWDGP).

Objective: This article describes the features of the PHA and its potential role in enhancing health care.

Discussion: In developing the PHA, the AWDGP utilises a range of software tools and consults with a practice to understand its clinical data management approach.